by Bryant Venosdel, Student Reporter
Steve Valencia, Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s associate vice president for university relations, is leaving the university after a 23-year career.
On Sept. 30, Valencia will start a new job as the vice president for development at Rogers State University.
“The opening developed, and I had people who encouraged me to look into the opportunity,” Valencia said. “I’ll be working with the Rogers State Foundation to raise money for students and the university. I will also be working on the annual giving programs with donors, and I’ll be overseeing the alumni association.”
Valencia, an NWOSU alumnus, said it was hard to leave the place he has worked for so long.
“It’s a little bittersweet leaving a place you’ve always been, but I am ready for a new challenge,” Valencia said.
Matt Adair, assistant dean of student affairs and recruitment, recalled working with Valenica.
“When I had been teaching in communication, Steve had been through our communication program, so he was extremely supportive,” Adair said. “He is a great guy and a phenomenal Ranger.”
Valarie Case, NWOSU’s University Relations specialist, has known Valencia for a long time.
“I have worked with him since he started here,” Case said. “We are both from Waynoka, we went to the same high school, and we both went to school here at Northwestern.”
Valencia said he will start his new job by adjusting to the work environment at Rogers State.
“I will probably spend the first 90 days just learning and listening a lot,” Valencia said. “They’ve given me a blank slate with what I want to do, but it will take some time to learn the traditions and culture that take place.”
Valencia also offered some advice to whoever takes his position: “Trust your instincts and put your own stamp on things.”
“I am always going be a Ranger,” Valencia said. “I’ve been very fortunate with my incredible staff. President Cunningham has been great to work with along with the other members of the senior staff, and I look forward to developing some of those relationships at Rogers.”